Travelling with dementia
When dementia is first diagnosed it may be important to some people to fulfill certain ambitions, such as visiting a particular place. If you are travelling abroad it will be important to ensure that the Travel and Medical Insurance Companies are made aware of the dementia diagnosis: a doctor's letter may be required.
As dementia progresses the person with dementia usually prefers not to travel farther afield. However holidays in familiar accommodation may continue to be enjoyed. Coaches and trains are sometimes more enjoyable than long car journeys.
Some couples find it helpful to holiday with close friends who can provide additional support to both of you.
A holiday staying with family or friends may work well for the person with dementia who lives alone.
A point is usually reached when overnight stays become too confusing for the person with dementia, who will not be able to remember where they are or where the bathroom is located. At this stage day trips might still be enjoyed, especially if they are to familiar places and involve only a short journey.
Eventually the person with dementia's horizons will shrink, so that they feel most comfortable in the home environment. However that doesn't mean that the person caring for them also needs to stop travelling: a variety of respite options are available which can allow carers to continue to enjoy restorative breaks.
Retreat Houses
For some people going on retreat is a break that brings a special sort of refreshment.
Most retreats are residential: you go and stay somewhere quiet and apart from your usual daily life, typically in a retreat house. Retreat houses provide a peaceful atmosphere and good accommodation at a modest price. Many are in the countryside, but there are some in towns too.
More information is available on The Retreat Association website.
Travel Insurance
There are various ways to get travel insurance. You could discuss your options with your regular travel insurance company, it may make specific provisions for medical conditions including dementia. Alzheimer's Society produces a comprehensive fact sheet about travelling and going on holiday. It can also provide specialist insurance cover on line or you can call 01603 828254. Age UK also provides insurance cover on line or contact 0845 6003348.
Further Information
The Alzheimer's Society factsheet Travelling and going on holiday has further information.
